Atelier Meruru Has A Maid And A ButlerAnd apparently they're both relevant.04.12.11 - 10:57 PM

Before Atelier Meruru: The Alchemist of Arland 3 was officially announced, the game's phrase was 'Princess x Maid x Butler = Kingdom.' So it would follow that the titular character's maid and butler must play pretty important roles in the game. This week's Dengeki PlayStation had info on these two, and about the game in general.

Meruru's maid and childhood friend is Keina Sweya, who's quoted as saying she's only happy around Meruru. In battle, she wields and giant hammer and sings. (Interesting combo, I know.) Rufus Falken is her butler. Rufus, who looks after her home and state, is described as strict with Meruru and unsympathetic. The 'princess' part, of course, refers to Meruru herself.

Like all other Atelier games, you'll be able to do the usual item synthesis, but you'll also be able to help NPCs in town as well. Meruru will also have a 'world-building' rank which allows her to build theaters, shops and other such buildings. Gain development points and you can also build forts and the like. As you develop your land, the population of Aris Kingdom will also change. If you're particularly narcissistic (or if you just really like her), you can also have bronze statues of Meruru put up.